In the last decade, independent researchers all over the world studying different chronic diseases linked to aging have all come to the same basic conclusion' low-level chronic inflammation plays a central role in many disease processes. Much of this low-level inflammation is the result of what is called the COX 2 enzyme. While inflammation cannot be linked to all disease (at least not at this point in time), we do know it is an underlying factor of arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, many types of cancers and a long list of other diseases. In fact, Claudio Franceschi, the scientific director at the Italian National Research Center on Aging, said, "Inflammation is probably the background and driving force behind all major age-related diseases."

As more and more research comes forth that shows inflammation's link to deadly chronic diseases, there has also been a great deal of research to find ways to safely block or stop the inflammation process that has gone astray within the body. Naturally, people hope for a medicine that is safe and reliable. While science has come up with some useful products in relation to inflammation, to date all of them have a possibility of serious side effects.

During the last ten years, while scientists have been painstakingly seeking the perfect anti-inflammatory medicine, Southeastern Asians had a natural answer hanging right above their heads. For centuries, the people in many areas of Southeast Asia have been using a delicious fruit to maintain their health and cure their ailments. This fruit is called mangosteen. Traditional Asian healers believed the mangosteen fruit had the power to stop infection, fight cancer and bolster energy. After quite a bit of research on the fruit, modern scientists are in close agreement.

They've found through the fruit's anti-inflammatory abilities, it is very helpful in preventing and possibly even stopping a wide range of diseases from skin infections and diabetes to Alzheimer's disease and uterine cancer.

Mangosteen, more than any other fruit that we are aware of, possesses the capabilities to alter the course of inflammation. How does this natural product work? Mangosteen is a proven COX 2 inhibitor. It has powerful xanthones that have strong healing qualities. Xanthones are phytochemicals, meaning they are natural chemicals that can only be found in fruits and vegetables, not from any animal source. Xanthones have been widely studied for their medicinal properties. So far they have demonstrated a great deal of pharmaceutical properties like supporting a microbiological balance, sustaining the immune system, improving joint flexibility as well as supporting positive mental health.

I want you to know that I recognize the validity in all forms of medicines. I am board qualified in radiology and orthopedics. On the other hand, I am also certified in acupuncture. My N.M.D allows me to prescribe conventional medication, yet I am well versed in the natural alternatives. The natural alternatives I do employ are scientifically based and well researched, such as mangosteen.

In my practice, I find there are places for both the conventional and the alternative in medicine. Conventional medicine stimulates some physical response (which is the desired effect) as well as depresses the immune system in other areas (which is the nondesired effect). When you use a natural product such as mangosteen, you are feeding the human body (which is composed of organic compounds) more organic compounds. In other words, you are giving the body more of what it already is. Therein is the benefit of alternative health products.